Telangana Food Safety Task Force finds violations in Patancheru area restaurants

Patancheru: The Telangana State Commissioner of Food Safety’s Task Force team conducted surprise inspections at several restaurants in the Patancheru area, uncovering multiple food safety violations on December 12, 2024.

Isthara Babai Hotel (Near ORR Muthangi)

The raid at Isthara Babai Hotel revealed several serious violations. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license was not displayed in a prominent location, and expired milk packets (500ml x 2) were found, with expiry dates of December 8, 2024.

In addition, Bombay Gold spices (1kg) were found to have expired in July 2024. Some vegetables were found to be rotten and spoiled, while food colours were being used in prepared dishes. Further violations included the absence of medical fitness records and FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification) training certificates for food handlers.

The kitchen's drain was partially blocked, and food materials in the refrigerator were neither covered nor labelled. The establishment lacked insect-proof protection on doors and windows, and cleaning materials were stored alongside raw food items.

The store did not follow the First-In-First-Out (FIFO) method, although pest control records were available.

The Palace-2 (Near ORR)

Another inspection at The Palace-2 revealed that the Food Business Operator (FBO) was operating without a valid license, and the water analysis report was not available.

The restaurant also had windows and doors without insect-proof screens, and the kitchen exit was open without shields. Synthetic food colours were being used in prepared foods, which were subsequently discarded.

Semi-prepared foods were not labelled in the refrigerator, and both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods were stored in the same fridge. Officials found that the storage area was messy, with food and non-food items, such as cleaning materials, stored in the same place.

Gulshan Hotel (Near ORR, Muthangi)

The inspection at Gulshan Hotel also revealed multiple food safety violations. The FBO was found to be operating without a valid license, and personnel were not FOSTAC trained. The water analysis report and medical fitness certificates for food handlers were missing.

The kitchen was found in a highly unhygienic condition, with no insect-proof shields or repellents. Iron knives were being used for cutting, and synthetic food colours were found in prepared foods.

Prepared and semi-prepared foods were kept together, and food items were not labelled. Additionally, fried onions were stored in unhygienic plastic drums, and food handlers were not wearing head caps, aprons, or gloves.

Consumers are encouraged to report any food safety concerns via the FoSCoS App. For more information and to download the app, visit the following links: Android- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.foscos&hl=en&gl=US and iOS -https://apps.apple.com/in/app/food-safety-compliance-system-foscos/id1481748596.